The True Story of Tom Dooley

At the conclusion of the Civil War, North Carolina’s Wilkes County was the site of a nationally publicized crime of passion. In the wake of a tumultuous love affair and a mysterious chain of events, Tom Dooley was tried, convicted and hanged for the murder of Laura Foster. This notorious crime became an inspiration for musicians, writers and storytellers since, creating a mystery of mythic proportions. Through newspaper articles, trial documents and public records, author John E. Fletcher brings this dramatic case to life, providing a long-awaited factual account of the legendary murder. Fletcher, a Watauga County native, is a retired professor and research scientist. Softcover, 176 pages, $15.99.